Senior nursing students from the University of Missouri–St. Louis gained firsthand experience in health policy and advocacy during Missouri Nurse Advocacy Day, traveling to the state Capitol in February with faculty from the College of Nursing.
A total of 46 students, accompanied by six faculty members, first attended a Missouri Nurses Association (MONA) meeting before visiting the Missouri State Capitol.
The experience gave students a closer look at how the political process shapes health care policy and patient outcomes. It also showed them how legislation affects patient care and nursing practice. Students learned how to advocate for their patients, profession and communities.
Students observed sessions in both the Senate and House of Representatives and met lawmakers, including Sen. Brian Williams and Rep. Gregg Bush, RN.
Keri Jupka, a senior research associate in the College of Nursing, said the experience offered valuable exposure to the legislative process.
“This is a great opportunity for the students to learn about current legislative issues related to nursing such as protecting nurses from workplace violence and how the legislative process works as a whole,” Jupka said. “During the day, students were able to interact directly with legislators. Our students were very engaged, asking great questions when meeting with Rep. Greg Bush and Sen. Brian Williams.” Williams emphasized the importance of advocacy for future nurses.
“Nursing students visiting the Capitol is always a highlight for me,” Williams said. “These are people who chose a profession built entirely around showing up for others, and they came here to make sure their voices are part of the conversation. That kind of advocacy does not stop being important when they leave Jefferson City. It is a skill, a habit and a mindset that will make them better nurses and stronger voices for their patients for the rest of their careers. I take what they share with me seriously, and my door is always open to them.”
Senior nursing student Eugenio Alonso said the experience offered a deeper understanding of government in action.
“I appreciated the program providing us with this opportunity,” Alonso said. "It was an invaluable experience that showed us an excellent way to advocate for patients and communities. Seeing the gears of bureaucracy turning was fascinating, it helped me gain a better understanding of how our government functions.”
Senior nursing student Vincenza Pierce said the day was eye-opening. “It was amazing to see nurses and lawmakers from different backgrounds work together to talk about health in communities,” Pierce said. "I saw how lawmakers introduce, review and pass a law."
Pierce also expressed appreciation for support that made the trip possible, noting the contribution from the Deaconess Foundation to help fund student transportation. For more information on making a gift to support College of Nursing students, visit the giving website.
The College of Nursing values opportunities like Missouri Nurse Advocacy Day and it looks forward to participating again next year.
